Our Holy Father Aimilianos was Bishop of Cyzicus during the reign of the Iconoclast Emperor Leo the Armenian (813-820). He was summoned together with other bishops to the court of the emperor, who insistently urged the bishops to refrain from the veneration of holy icons. Bishop Aimilianos was the first to tell the emperor firmly that the question of the veneration of holy icons ought to be discussed and decided only within the Church by its spiritual leaders, and not at the imperial court. In the year 815 he was sent for five years into exile, enduring much pain and humiliation for the sake of Christ. Saint Aimilianos died in the year 820 and took up habitation among the citizens of heaven, where he received for his confession an unfading crown.

Apolytikion in the Third Tone

In confessing the faith you proclaimed Orthodox doctrine, and were unjustly exiled for rebuking the wicked king. Righteous and glorious Aimilianos, the boast of Cyzicus, entreat Christ God to grant us His great mercy.

Kontakion in the Third Tone

The Church for which you suffered, glorifies you in hymns, O Aimilianos; you were a valiant champion of the Trinity, therefore we honor your memory. Deliver your servants from all assaults of the enemy.